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If you’re looking to try something different during your visit to Melbourne, the Have a Go Clay Target Shooting experience in Werribee offers a unique mix of fun, skill-building, and friendly competition. This tour is designed for those curious about shooting sports but who don’t want the hassle of licensing or prior experience. It’s a safe and welcoming environment run by seasoned shooters, including Olympic and Commonwealth Gold Medallists Russell and Lauryn Mark, making it both professional and approachable.
What we love about this experience is how it demystifies shooting sports for newcomers—no license or prior experience needed—and how the friendly, expert guides ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe. Plus, the chance to hit every target guarantees a satisfying experience, even for complete beginners. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s a compact session, lasting about two and a half hours, so if you’re craving an all-day adventure, this might be a quick highlight rather than an all-encompassing outing.
This experience is ideal for families, friends, and solo travelers looking for a memorable, active outing—especially those eager to learn a new sport or enjoy a fun challenge. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a different way to enjoy Victoria’s outdoors, you’ll find this activity offers both entertainment and a real sense of achievement.
Key Points
- No license or experience required: Perfect for first-timers and nervous beginners alike.
- Safe, controlled environment: Guided by experienced shooters, ensuring safety and fun.
- Guaranteed to hit a target: Enjoy the satisfaction of success, with a chance to return free if you score 20/20.
- Includes awards and friendly competition: Compete with others for prizes at 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place.
- All equipment provided: Firearms, safety gear, and training are included, so you just need to bring your enthusiasm.
- Flexible and convenient: Offered on weekends, with bookings typically made around nine days in advance.
Overview and Context
The Have a Go Clay Target Shooting experience is run by Go Shooting, Australia’s oldest and largest clay shooting company, founded by Olympic gold medallists Russell and Lauryn Mark. Since 1999, they’ve been making shooting sports accessible and fun, especially for novices.
Their Werribee location offers a two-hour-and-30-minute session at the Werribee Rifle Range, which is easy to reach from Melbourne. The setting is outdoors, with excellent facilities and multiple stations to keep the activity engaging. The experience includes a warm-up with 10 targets, guided by experienced instructors, followed by a 20-target competition with a mix of singles and doubles.
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What to Expect at the Range
Upon arrival at the Werribee Rifle Range, you’ll be welcomed and equipped with all necessary gear, including firearms and safety equipment. Safety is emphasized from the start—guides like Adam and Stu make sure everyone understands how to handle the guns properly, which is especially comforting for first-timers or nervous participants.
The warm-up phase allows you to get comfortable, practicing your aim with 10 targets. Here, instructors provide personalized tips to improve your technique, which helps boost confidence before the friendly competition begins.
Next comes the main event: a 20-target challenge, with targets launched from five different stations. You’ll enjoy a mix of singles and doubles, which keeps the activity lively and tests your reactions from different angles and distances. The emphasis is on fun and safety, with guides continuously explaining techniques and ensuring everyone hits targets. As one reviewer noted, “Instructor was knowledgeable, easy to understand, and helped provide loads of tips to help us hit a target!”
The Competitive Edge and Rewards
What makes this experience stand out is the friendly competition and the chance for bragging rights. Prizes are awarded for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places, adding a bit of excitement. But perhaps the most motivating aspect is the guarantee to hit a target—and if you manage a perfect score of 20/20, you get to come back for free. That’s a pretty compelling incentive for beginners eager to improve or for those just wanting a fun challenge.
Participants consistently praise the knowledgeable, patient instructors. Several reviews highlight how guides like Adam go above and beyond, making the activity accessible even for those on the autism spectrum or those with initial nerves. One reviewer mentioned, “Adam really made the day approachable,” which underscores the inclusive nature of the experience.
The Environment and Group Size
With a maximum of 24 travelers, the group size remains manageable, ensuring personalized attention and safety. Most bookings are made about nine days in advance, reflecting a healthy demand and the activity’s popularity. The outdoor range offers fresh air and scenic views, making it much more than just a shooting lesson; it’s a genuine outdoor adventure.
The activity is scheduled on weekends from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, providing flexibility if you want a morning or afternoon session. The meeting point is at the Werribee Rifle Range, located at 1225 Ballan Rd, which is easy to access from Melbourne.
Pricing and Value
At $135.56 per person, this activity offers great value considering it includes all equipment, instruction, and safety gear. The fact that you’re guaranteed to hit a target and can earn a free return if you score perfectly adds a playful challenge. Plus, the awards for top scores make it more than just a casual try; it’s a legitimate competition that encourages improvement and replayability.
Given the high praise from attendees—who describe it as “superb,” “supportive,” and “a great day out”—most find this cost well justified. It’s a chance to learn something new, enjoy the outdoors, and have a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
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The Reviews Speak Volumes
Authentic feedback underscores the quality of guides and instructors. Comments like “Adam was an excellent instructor and very patient,” or “Debbie paid attention to the needs of each group member,” demonstrate the staff’s dedication to safety, skill development, and fun.
Many reviewers highlight how approachable and well-explained the instructions are, making it an ideal activity for first-timers, families, or even those with special needs. One noted how their teenage son, on the autism spectrum, found the experience “approachable,” thanks to the guides’ patience and professionalism.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?
This clay target shooting experience is best suited for adventurers, families, or groups seeking an active, engaging way to spend a couple of hours outdoors. It’s perfect if you want to try something completely different from typical sightseeing—without the need for prior experience or licensing. It also appeals to competitive spirits and those eager to improve their shooting skills in a safe setting.
If you enjoy learning new skills or want a fun, relaxed challenge, this activity will leave you with a sense of achievement and perhaps a new hobby. For those who prefer more leisurely pursuits or are not interested in firearms, this might not be the right fit.
Overall, it offers a balanced blend of professionalism, safety, and fun—a rare combination that makes it worth considering during your time in Victoria.
FAQs
Do I need a gun license to participate?
No, this experience does not require a firearms license. All equipment and firearms are supplied, and safety is handled by the instructors.
Is prior experience necessary?
Not at all. The activity is designed for beginners, and guides provide thorough instructions to help everyone get started, regardless of skill level.
Can children or teenagers participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the activity is suitable for teens, especially with guides making sure everyone feels comfortable.
How long does the activity last?
The session lasts approximately two and a half hours, including warm-up, competition, and awards.
What should I wear?
While not explicitly stated, it’s best to wear comfortable outdoor clothing, closed shoes, and sunscreen, especially since it’s an outdoor activity.
Are spectators allowed?
Yes, spectators are welcome, making it a fun outing for friends or family members who prefer to watch.
Is the experience suitable for people with disabilities?
Service animals are allowed, and the guides are known for their supportive approach, but it’s advisable to contact the provider if specific accommodations are needed.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Since good weather is essential, the activity might be canceled due to poor conditions. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Ready to Book?
Have a Go Clay Target Shooting – Victoria (Werribee)
“This was a great way to experience shooting in a safe but fun way. Adam was an excellent instructor and very patient. My son and I had a fun time g…”
Closing Thoughts
For those eager to try a safe, engaging outdoor sport without fuss, the Have a Go Clay Target Shooting experience in Werribee offers an excellent mix of professionalism, fun, and challenge. Whether as a unique group activity, a bonding experience, or a personal adventure, it’s a chance to learn a new skill in a friendly environment, guided by some of Australia’s most accomplished shooters.
If you’re looking for an activity that’s more than just sightseeing, provides a sense of achievement, and allows you to enjoy Victoria’s outdoor beauty, this shooting experience might just be the perfect fit for your travel plans.
